Best Costume Design: What to Wear Post-Oscars

February 21, 2009 3:25 PM

I've quite improbably wrangled an invite to an exclusive post-Oscar party tomorrow night. This is not my usual scene (big understatement). What's appropriate attire, and where can a petite but not skinny girl shop for such attire in LA?

I live in NYC and am flying out tomorrow morning. It's short notice, but obviously not an opportunity to miss even if I end up wearing the wrong thing. Thanks for your help!

posted by alainabrowne to clothing, beauty, & fashion (6 comments total)

Basic Black sheath. Almost anywhere.
posted by ptm at 4:42 PM on February 21

Given that I don't know where the party is, and these things are hard to describe, I'm not entirely clear on exactly what you should be wearing, but I'd assume something cool and flattering would be much more of a priority than any specific dress code unless you've been given one. I wouldn't be scared to keep it basic as long as it looks great on you, and I'd just go for a dress and heels. LA tends to be less formal than New York, so if you look good and not cheap or dated, you're probably fine.

As to where to go - I'm not clear on what you mean by "not skinny", so if you're larger than a size 12 my advice would be different, but otherwise just go to the Beverly Center, start at the department stores and try on everything. Take someone for advice if you can and start early!
posted by crabintheocean at 4:42 PM on February 21

It might be tempting to shop at the Hollywood & Highland mall (it's above and around the Kodak Theater), but I'd stay away from that area tomorrow (as it's above and around the Kodak Theater). The Beverly Center is a good recommendation; nearby, two major department stores, and a whole slew of trendy dress shops.
posted by carsonb at 4:51 PM on February 21

Black Dress. To the Knees, with slight sleeves. Neckline up to you. Pearls. Black slightly heeled shoes. It is an unbeatable combo
posted by The Whelk at 6:27 PM on February 21

While black is the safe and classic bet for the dress as mentioned above, I would suggest adding a small pop of color to enhance the look. Some colorful accessory you already have would be ideal, like a small shiny clutch, shoes, silk shawl, or jewelry (not necessarily all together). If you're not into jewelry, a neckline with a chain strap could add a bit of glitz too.
posted by PY at 1:43 AM on February 22

Or maybe just wander around Beverly Hills itself, depending upon how much you want to spend.

Here's the Yelp results for "dress" in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood if you want to scout for designers, particular tastes, etc.
posted by snuffleupagus at 8:49 AM on February 22